Historic Ice Well at Gadsby's Tavern Museum

The City of Alexandria is fortunate to count Gadsby's Tavern's ca. 1793 commercial size ice well as part of its historic properties. The history of Gadsby's Tavern is, at its core, a story of American commerce and entrepreneurship.  Community leaders, including those of the fledgling national government, met at Gadsby's to conduct business and discuss the news of the day that arrived via ship in the busy port of Alexandria. Large, community celebratory events hosting America's first six Presidents occurred at the tavern, including George Washington's Birthnight Celebrations and Thomas Jefferson's 1801 Inaugural Banquet.  As travelers ventured to the new Federal City, Gadsby's Tavern set the standard for the nation's emerging hospitality industry.  One example of this was the subterranean ice well, built underneath the corner of Royal and Cameron Streets during the City Tavern's construction.

	Ice Well History Learn about the history of the ice well and its importance to Alexandria's early hospitality industry.
	Ice Well Restoration Project  Learn about the goals of the Ice Well Restoration Project and keep up-to-date on the current restoration work.
	Donate! Help restore one of Alexandria's most unique historic features!  Your charitable donation will help preserve and interpret this important architectural feature.
	Blog ~ History on the Rocks Read the blog that showcases everthing related to the Ice Melt Contest, the Historic Ice Well and the Restoration Project.
	Ice Melt Contest (February 18 - April 9, 2011) Using 18th-century ice preservation techniques, 6,300 pounds of ice melted inside the historic ice well during the Museum's Ice Melt Contest in 2011.  Through photographs, see the transformation from ice mound to nothing. This contest and event would not be possible without the generous support from the local community.